Minnesota lets you renew online through Drive.mn.gov if you meet a few basic requirements

Minnesota's online renewal system at Drive.mn.gov is the fastest way to renew your driver's license without leaving home. You can renew online if your license is not expired more than one year, you have no medical suspensions or restrictions that changed, and you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. The whole process takes about 10 minutes, and you'll receive your new license by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

If you don't meet the online requirements—or prefer to renew in person—you can visit any Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office. In-person renewal takes longer because of wait times, but it's necessary if your license has been expired for more than a year, if you need to update your address or medical information, or if you want to change your name or photo.

Key Takeaways

  • You can renew online at Drive.mn.gov if your license expired less than one year ago and you have no medical holds or changes to report.
  • Online renewal costs $24.50 for a four-year license or $48.50 for an eight-year license, and you pay by debit or credit card during the process.
  • Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; you can drive on your old license until it arrives.
  • If your license expired more than one year ago or you need to update medical information, address, or photo, you must renew in person at a DVS office.
  • Minnesota DVS offices are located in every county, and you can find your nearest office and check wait times on the Drive.mn.gov website.

What you need to renew online at Drive.mn.gov

Before you start the online renewal, gather your current Minnesota driver's license and a valid payment method—debit card or credit card. You'll also need to know your Minnesota ID number, which appears on your license. Have your Social Security number ready as well, since the system will ask for it to verify your identity.

The system will ask you to confirm your address and emergency contact information. If either has changed since your last renewal, you'll need to update it during the process. If you've changed your name since your license was issued, you cannot renew online and must go to a DVS office in person with legal documentation of the name change.

How to complete your renewal on Drive.mn.gov

Go to Drive.mn.gov and select "Renew Your License" from the homepage. Click the link for online renewal and enter your driver's license number and date of birth. The system will pull up your current license information and ask you to review it for accuracy.

Next, you'll confirm your address and contact details. If anything needs to change, update it at this step. Then you'll choose your license type—four-year or eight-year—and review the fee. Pay with your debit or credit card, and you're done. The system will give you a confirmation number when ready; save or print this for your records.

Your new license will be mailed to the address on file. You can continue to drive on your current license while you wait. If you don't receive your new license within 14 business days, contact DVS at 651-296-6911 or use the contact form on Drive.mn.gov.

When you must renew in person at a DVS office

If your license expired more than one year ago, the online system will not let you renew. You'll need to visit a DVS office in person. The same applies if you have any medical suspensions, restrictions, or if your medical information has changed since your last renewal. You also must renew in person if you want to update your photo, change your name, or if you need to correct information on your license.

Bring your current or expired license, proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you're changing your name, bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you're updating your address, bring one document that shows both your name and new address.

Finding a DVS office and what to expect

Minnesota has DVS offices in every county. Visit Drive.mn.gov, select "Find a DVS Office," and enter your city or zip code to see locations near you. Many offices show current wait times online, so you can choose a time that works for you. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require an appointment. Check your local office's page to see which system they use.

In-person renewal typically takes 20 to 45 minutes depending on the office and time of day. You'll take a new photo, pay the renewal fee, and receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your permanent license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you need your license the same day, some offices offer a rush service for an additional fee—ask when you arrive.

License fees and how long your new license lasts

A four-year Minnesota driver's license costs $24.50. An eight-year license costs $48.50. Both prices are the same whether you renew online or in person. You pay at the time of renewal, and there are no additional fees unless you choose rush service at an in-person office.

Your new license will be valid for either four or eight years from the date it is issued, depending on which option you choose. Your renewal date will be printed on the front of your license. You can renew up to one year before your license expires, so you don't have to wait until the last minute.

What happens if your license is suspended or revoked

If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it online or in person until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact DVS at 651-296-6911 to find out the reason for the suspension and what you need to do to restore your driving privileges. Suspensions can result from unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or medical issues; the steps to clear it depend on the cause.

Once your suspension is cleared, you can renew your license through the normal online or in-person process. If you're unsure whether your license is suspended, you can check your status on Drive.mn.gov by entering your license number and date of birth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Minnesota license if I live out of state?

Yes, you can renew online at Drive.mn.gov from anywhere. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file. If you've moved out of state, update your address during the online renewal process. If you need to change your photo or medical information, you'll need to visit a Minnesota DVS office in person or contact DVS to discuss your options.

What if my license was lost or stolen?

You cannot renew a lost or stolen license online. You must go to a DVS office in person to report it and request a replacement. Bring proof of identity and proof of your address. The replacement license costs the same as a renewal and will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Do I need to take a new photo when I renew online?

No. When you renew online, your current photo stays on your license. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at a DVS office. Your photo is updated automatically when you renew in person.

How do I know if my license is about to expire?

Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license. You can also check your license status on Drive.mn.gov by entering your license number and date of birth. Minnesota sends renewal reminders by mail about 60 days before your license expires.

Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or fine?

It depends on the ticket. If you have an unpaid traffic fine or failure to appear in court, your license may be suspended, and you cannot renew until it's resolved. Check your license status on Drive.mn.gov or call DVS at 651-296-6911 to learn about there are any holds on your license.